The 1990s was a decade marked by fashion trends that were inspired by a wide range of cultural and societal factors. From the emergence of grunge music and alternative culture to the growth of hip-hop and streetwear, the 90s were a time of experimentation and self-expression in fashion. In this blog post, we will explore some of the key fashion trends of the 90s and the influences that shaped them.
Grunge
One of the most iconic fashion trends of the 90s was grunge, a subculture that emerged from the music scene in Seattle in the late 80s and early 90s. Grunge was characterized by a laid-back, rebellious aesthetic that included oversized flannel shirts, ripped jeans, and combat boots. The look was inspired by the DIY ethos of the punk movement and reflected the anti-establishment attitudes of the time.
The grunge look was also influenced by the music that gave it its name. Bands like Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Soundgarden all had a distinct sound and style that was heavily associated with the grunge movement. Their music was raw and unpolished, with lyrics that often expressed feelings of disillusionment and dissatisfaction with the world.
Hip-Hop and Streetwear
Another major influence on 90s fashion was hip-hop culture, which had been growing in popularity since the late 70s. Hip-hop fashion was characterized by baggy clothing, athletic wear, and sneakers, as well as bold colors and graphic prints. Brands like Nike, Adidas, and Fila became synonymous with the hip-hop look, and their products were often worn with oversized t-shirts and tracksuits.
Streetwear also emerged as a distinct fashion trend in the 90s, with brands like Stussy and Supreme leading the way. Streetwear was characterized by a mix of athletic wear, skate culture, and hip-hop style, and was often associated with urban youth culture. The look was heavily influenced by graffiti and street art, and included bold graphics and bright colors.
Minimalism
While grunge and hip-hop fashion were both characterized by an eclectic, bold aesthetic, the 90s also saw the emergence of minimalism as a fashion trend. Minimalism was a reaction to the excess and flamboyance of the 80s, and was characterized by clean lines, neutral colors, and simple silhouettes.
Designers like Calvin Klein, Jil Sander, and Helmut Lang all embraced minimalism in their collections, creating clothing that was elegant and understated. The minimalist trend also extended to accessories, with simple, geometric jewelry and small handbags becoming popular among fashion-forward women.
Globalization
One of the less-discussed influences on 90s fashion was the growing trend of globalization. As the world became more connected through advances in technology and communication, fashion began to reflect this global perspective. This was seen in the rise of ethnic-inspired fashion, as designers looked to traditional dress from around the world for inspiration.
The trend also saw the emergence of new materials and techniques in fashion. As designers began to source fabrics and manufacturing techniques from around the world, new textures and finishes emerged in clothing. This global approach to fashion was seen in the collections of designers like Alexander McQueen and John Galliano, who were known for their avant-garde creations and bold use of materials.
All in all, the 1990s was a decade marked by a diverse range of fashion trends, each influenced by a different set of cultural and societal factors. From grunge to hip-hop to minimalism, the 90s saw a wide range of styles emerge and evolve. While some of these trends may have faded away over time, many of the key elements of 90s fashion continue to influence designers and fashion-lovers today.
In the past century, the world has undergone tremendous changes, and one of the most notable transformations has been in the area of clothing recycling. Recycling clothes, which once was considered an unimportant and irrelevant matter, has now become a significant issue due to the increasing awareness of the importance of sustainability and environmental protection.
In the early 1900s, clothing recycling was not a widely practiced activity. The average person purchased clothes that were built to last, and any old clothes were either passed down to younger family members or repurposed into rags or cleaning materials. However, the invention of synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon in the 1930s and 1940s made clothes cheaper to produce, and their easy disposability led to an increase in waste.
The 1960s saw the beginning of the modern environmental movement, and with it, increased awareness of the need to reduce waste and preserve resources. This led to a resurgence in the idea of recycling, and organizations like Goodwill and the Salvation Army began to expand their clothing donation programs. In the 1970s, the first “recycling” stores were opened in the United States, where people could donate their old clothing and purchase second-hand clothes.
In the 1980s and 1990s, the textile recycling industry began to grow, and the first textile recycling machines were developed. These machines could sort through large quantities of used clothing, separating them into different categories based on material and quality. The clothes were then shredded, and the fibers were used to create new textiles, insulation, and even carpets.
In the early 2000s, the rise of online marketplaces such as eBay and Craigslist made it easier for people to sell their old clothing online, rather than throwing them away. The emergence of social media platforms like Instagram also played a role in promoting sustainable fashion, with influencers sharing tips on how to repurpose old clothes and encouraging people to buy second-hand clothing.
Today, clothing recycling has become a global industry. According to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, the fashion industry produces over 92 million tons of waste every year, with less than 1% of it being recycled. However, there are now many initiatives and organizations working to improve this. Major clothing retailers such as H&M, Zara, and Levi’s have launched recycling programs where customers can bring in their old clothes and receive a discount on new purchases. Many cities and towns also have textile recycling programs, where people can bring their used clothing to be sorted and recycled.
In addition to recycling, there has also been a significant rise in upcycling, where old clothes are repurposed into new and fashionable items. Upcycling can range from simply adding embellishments or patches to a piece of clothing to completely transforming it into something entirely new. This has become a popular trend among DIY enthusiasts and sustainable fashion advocates, with many small businesses and independent designers specializing in upcycled clothing.
We, here at Diversity Consignment, pride ourselves in offering a unique textile recycling experience. One in which clothing passes directly from a consignors closet to a new and happy home. I believe that consignment has the potential to be the most sustainable way of recycling within the textile industry, applying a zero sum waste approach.
We also offer a platform for up cycling artists and creators to showcase some of their creations while making a profit. Come by and check out some of the unique things we have for sale!
At Diversity Consignment, we recognize that the fashion industry is one of the largest industries in the world, generating trillions of dollars in revenue each year. However, with the rise of fast fashion and the throwaway culture that comes with it, the amount of clothing waste being produced is reaching alarming levels. This waste has a significant impact on the economy, affecting everything from the environment to job creation. Within this article, we hope to shed some light on the subject of waste and offer some new insights to the potential harmful effects waste poses in a broader sense, the economy.
The first major impact of clothing waste on the economy is the cost of disposal. Clothing that is no longer wearable ends up in landfills, where it can take hundreds of years to decompose. In the meantime, it takes up valuable space that could be used for other purposes. The cost of managing and maintaining landfills is significant, and the more clothing waste that is produced, the higher these costs become.
Another economic impact of clothing waste is the lost revenue that comes from discarded clothing. When clothing is thrown away, it is no longer available to be sold, which means that potential revenue is lost. This can be particularly problematic for small businesses, which may not have the financial resources to withstand the loss of revenue.
Additionally, the production of clothing waste has a negative impact on the environment, which can have ripple effects on the economy. The textile industry is one of the most polluting industries in the world, with the production of cotton, for example, requiring significant amounts of water and pesticides. When clothing is thrown away, it contributes to this pollution and can lead to further environmental degradation.
The environmental impact of clothing waste can also have indirect economic costs. For example, air and water pollution can lead to increased healthcare costs as people become sick from exposure to toxins. It can also lead to the loss of jobs in industries that rely on clean water and air, such as fishing or tourism.
In addition to these economic impacts, clothing waste can also have social costs. For example, in many developing countries, discarded clothing from developed countries is sold or donated. While this can provide access to clothing for those who may not be able to afford it otherwise, it can also have negative impacts on local textile industries, which are unable to compete with the low prices of imported clothing. This can lead to job losses and decreased economic activity in these industries.
There are also economic opportunities that are lost when clothing is thrown away. For example, there is a growing market for recycled textiles, with companies looking to create new clothing and other products from discarded materials. When clothing is thrown away, these opportunities for recycling and upcycling are lost.
Overall, the impact of clothing waste on the economy is significant and far-reaching. From the direct costs of disposal to the indirect costs of environmental and social degradation, the negative impacts of clothing waste are felt across a wide range of industries and sectors. However, there are also opportunities for innovation and growth in the emerging market for recycled textiles and sustainable fashion. By taking steps to reduce clothing waste and promote more sustainable practices in the fashion industry, we can create a more resilient and sustainable economy for the future.
Thrifting, the practice of purchasing second-hand items, has become increasingly popular in recent years. It’s not just about saving money, though. There are many benefits to thrifting that go beyond just the financial. Here are some reasons why you should consider thrifting for your next shopping spree.
1. Sustainability
The fashion industry is notorious for its impact on the environment. From the use of water and chemicals to the carbon emissions of transportation, the production of new clothes is a significant contributor to pollution. Additionally, when clothes are discarded, they often end up in landfills, where they can take years to decompose.
Thrifting is a sustainable option because it extends the life of clothing that would otherwise be thrown away. By purchasing second-hand items, you’re reducing the demand for new clothes and helping to keep usable items out of landfills. Thrifting is an eco-friendly choice that helps to reduce your carbon footprint.
2. Uniqueness
When you shop at mainstream retailers, you’re likely to find the same items as everyone else. Thrifting, on the other hand, offers a unique shopping experience. Each thrift store has its own selection of items, and you never know what you’ll find. You may discover vintage pieces that are no longer available in stores or one-of-a-kind items that you won’t see anyone else wearing. Thrifting allows you to express your individuality and stand out from the crowd.
3. Affordability
One of the most obvious benefits of thrifting is the cost savings. Second-hand items are typically much cheaper than new ones, allowing you to stretch your budget further. You can find high-quality items for a fraction of their original price, which means you can get more for your money. Thrifting is an excellent way to find bargains and get the most out of your shopping budget.
4. Higher Quality
Many items you find while thrifting are of higher quality than what you might find in mainstream retailers. This is because they were likely made to last, rather than being produced quickly and cheaply. You can find items made from higher quality materials, such as wool or silk, that are more durable and will last longer than their cheaper counterparts. Thrifting allows you to get high-quality items for a fraction of the price.
5. Supporting Local Communities
When you shop at thrift stores, you’re supporting local businesses and communities. Many thrift stores are run by non-profit organizations or small business owners. By shopping at these stores, you’re helping to support local economies and contribute to the growth of small businesses. Additionally, some thrift stores donate a portion of their profits to local charities, so your purchase can make a positive impact beyond just your wardrobe.
6. Nostalgia
Thrifting can be a nostalgic experience. You may come across items that remind you of your childhood or a certain time period. This can be a fun way to reminisce and relive memories. Additionally, you may discover items that have a unique history, such as vintage band tees or concert posters. Thrifting allows you to connect with the past and add a touch of nostalgia to your wardrobe.
7. Experimentation
Thrifting is an excellent way to experiment with different styles and trends. Because the items are affordable, you can try out new looks without investing a lot of money. You can also mix and match items from different eras and styles to create a unique look. Thrifting allows you to be creative with your wardrobe and try out new styles without breaking the bank.
In conclusion, thrifting has many benefits beyond just the financial savings. It’s a sustainable option that helps to reduce your carbon footprint. It allows you to express your individuality and find unique items that you won’t see anyone else wearing. Thrifting is an affordable way to get high-quality items that are made to last
When it comes to the vintage scene, Boston is starting to make a serious footprint. There are all kinds of vintage stores across the US that have a stronghold in areas that are both remotely and in crowded cities. From LA to NY there are hundreds of some of the most iconic vintage stores packed with original Levis and adorable swing dresses. Many times, these stores are the places that Hollywood turns to for outfitting dated movie and television scenes. In fact, one of the names on this list has been featured in many movies across the big screen and they’ve been in Boston this whole time!
What is vintage? The term “vintage” and “antique” oftentimes overlap when spoken about from day to day. In terms of “true Vintage” we, at Diversity Consignment reference that phrase to anything that is at least 20 years old. Many department stores and boutiques will carry new “vintage inspired” outfits that may contain elements that one would commonly see in a vintage piece. These elements could include natural frays, dyes, or patina characteristic of a true vintage, aged garment. Not as good as the real thing in my opinion.
For this list we scoured the internet and by car for places within our home-town, Boston, Ma. in search of the absolute best true vintage stores in the area. There is no particular order to which of the top 5 is better than the others; this list is more of a comprehensive list of high-quality true vintage stores within Boston. Get ready…Go!
Bobby From Boston is the OG Boston vintage store. It was established in 1995 by the true legend Bobby Garnett. Bobby started off his career in the vintage game by establishing his personal collection and growing it into his personal showcase. He must have been a true pioneer at the time when vintage clothing certainly didn’t have the mainstream buzz that it does today.
He eventually evolved his personal collection into an internationally sensational storefront. Bobby From Boston has outfitted countless movie sets and inspired incredible fashion designers. They have thousands of pieces from every era throughout fashion history. I believe that they do not accept anything later than the 80s to be brought into their showcase for sale.
Prices are on the higher side of second-hand outlets; however, you are sure to find exactly what you’re looking for and more! Today, Bobby From Boston is run by Bobby’s daughter Jessica since his passing in 2016. Jessica continues to run the warehouse with the legacy of Bobby in mind while adding her own creative twist.
The warehouse is absolutely massive. It’s barely even a store really. There are thousands of garments and outfits from every era imaginable. The focus is certainly male-oriented but as we know, anything can be and should be worn by anyone. The place is a museum of hand-picked gems and should be recognized as one. Maybe it will be someday!
They are currently located in their warehouse at 545 Washington St. in Lynn, Ma. Bobby From Boston is exclusively open to the public on Sundays from 11-4.
40 South St. in Jamaica Plain may be one of Boston’s greatest hidden gems. The store has been in business for over 30 years and run by former rock star Hilken Mancini. Hilken was a rock star from the golden age of punk and was a member of bands such as Fuzzy, The Count Me Outs, and Shepherdess.
The store brings out that punk rock energy in such a terrific way. There are hundreds of true vintage gems all over the place! Included in the inventory are vintage rock shirts, womenswear as well as a vast selection of menswear. The place is a real vibe and Mancini contributes to that energy in a great way. She really is the queen of vintage Boston. It is easy to get lost in the mix of colorful 60s, 70s, and 80s fabric.
The store is certainly on the smaller side and is loaded with clothing. The place is vibrant and colorful. It is located at 40 South St. in Jamaica Plain, Boston. The store is open Thursday 12-6, Friday 12-6, Saturday 11-6, and Sunday 12-5. Definitely come check it out!
It’s pronounced “VeeVaunt”! Vivant Vintage pays homage to the rebirth of clothing. After all, the word vivant itself is the French word for life. Vivant Vintage has that goal in mind; to resurface life into cast-away and discarded clothing, shoes, and accessories and wow are they giving them life!
From the Traveling Spectacular cart owner Justin Pomerleau constructed in 2011, to the brick-and-mortar store he has today, Justin has created a legacy. So detailed, in fact, you can read the play-by-play history on the Vivant website. It is a true American Dream brought to life.
Vivant Vintage is housed in a unique location within Allston. It is close by to a candle factory so oftentimes there is a fresh candle-making scent lingering nearby. I think this adds to the charm of the shop. The store itself is organized in a very aesthetically pleasing organized clutter. Not to say that it is cluttered, because it certainly is well organized. The store just screams vintage. Hundreds of vintage jeans. Everything there is hand-picked by Justin and his team of experts. Nothing is not vintage, and that passion shows. They have an excellent selection of all things old but jewelry in particular is what stands out the most. Check it out for yourself!
Vivant Vintage is located at 318 Lincoln St, Allston Ma. They’re right there at the end of the footbridge. You may also see Justin and the team on the road as they stick to their roots by regularly scheduling pop-ups throughout various marketplaces in Boston.
Another vintage shop in Boston with humble roots in the street markets is High Energy Vintage. High Energy Vintage began on the streets of SoWa Vintage Market in Boston’s South End. In 2012 they were able to secure their first location in Teele Square, and in 2016 they moved to their current location at Union Square.
High Energy Vintage is one of those places that once you’re there, you never forget. The place is decked out in neat decor and childhood nostalgia (I guess if you were a child near the time I was, at least). The place is laced in vibrant, colorful clothing and some staple classics. Think 1980s as a store front and you’ve envisioned yourself within the walls of High Energy Vintage. The owners really do bring the energy when it comes to the decor and the vibes. They have a fairly large storefront and always have plenty of gems to choose from at very reasonable prices.
High Energy Vintage is your 1 stop shop for all things nostalgic. They even have a rad selection of vinyl records and VHS tapes! Also, I have to admit, their Tiktok and social media pages deserve more views and likes than they get. The marketing is absolutely fabulous!
Find High Energy Vintage at 429 Somerville Ave. in Somerville, Ma. They’re open every day except Tuesday. You can also find High Energy Vintage on the road as well! They’re oftentimes setting up shop at the local markets and have a schedule to see where they’ll be right there on their website.
Certainly, the oldest vintage shop on the list is the Great Eastern Trading Co. Originally created as an army/navy surplus store in 1969, Great Eastern Trading Co has a long and detailed history. I won’t go into all the details within this article, but the information is readily available on their website. The current owner, Nephtaliem McCrary has brought the store to the forefront of the “modern” vintage scene of Boston.
With locations in Cambridge, Malden, and Somerville, the Great Eastern Trading Co has roots that stretch to all corners of the city. The stores themselves are what you would want to walk into when desiring something different. The store specializes in true vintage garments and costumes. They have a huge selection of the perfect costumes for any party/event and especially Halloween. The stores are stocked full of eclectic displays and decor. The characters are really brought to life anytime someone tries something on and poses for a photo for the web page or social media.
When I tell you this place has energy, this place has energy. There are gorgeous styles from all eras (20’s – today). Owner McCrary really loves to test the limit of sanity with the fun stylings and displays inside and outside of the store. You can find all sorts of fun events scheduled on their website to keep you in the loop of what’s happening within the vintage world. Be sure to keep Great Eastern Trading Co on your list of must-see vintage shops in Boston.
Conclusion
So, there you have it! My list of the top 5 true vintage stores in Boston. Like I said, Boston is on the rise for cool and eclectic vintage shops, and I hope that this list guides you. Don’t forget to check us out as well! Diversity Consignment has been doing its thang, although I would not consider us a true vintage store, we definitely carry some awesome vintage stuff!
I hope that more stores carry on the tradition of recycling clothing and forgotten gems. The world could use more funk and I love to see the future generations rockin’ some unique stylish stuff as opposed to the cookie-cutter styles ugly department stores continue to push on us. Stay humble, stay cool.
Many people will scoff at the idea of receiving a used gift as a present, and that is fine if you feel like you’re “above” second-hand gifts. I’m not here to convince you that you’re not bougey, I’m just here to explain some of the benefits of gifting and receiving used items.
Some of the topics I will cover in this article are the benefits to gift used items, some of the trends we have been seeing, and where the future of gift-giving may be trending.
The Benefits of Gifting Used or Second-Hand.
The stigma of the embarrassment in gifting used or second-hand gifts can finally end. There are so many benefits to gifting used gifts!
You can save money: The holidays are often-times traps by corporate America to force us to buy, buy, buy. No doubt we can give gifts if we have the resources to do so, but why does it all have to be so new and expensive? It doesn’t when you shop second hand! Imagine paying anywhere between 50% to 90% off! That’s more money to use for the things you love, and the recipient will appreciate the fact that you thought of them (If they truly care about you).
You can get awesome, unique stuff: This holds true for every category. What they serve you in the retail stores is just what they think you’re interested in today. Imagine opening up a world where the interests of today can be expanded to the interests of all-time. Let me explain. In other words, you can find treasures that were beloved from all eras. Imagine finding a super-cool board game only produced for a few years 30 years ago! If your partner loves board games, that could be an awesome, unique gift for them.
Many times, you are supporting a small business or benefitting charities: Most of the second-hand industry is run by local re-sellers or charity organizations. Imagine the impact you can make on the many people that you shop from by choosing to buy used. In this day and age where everything is turning into a giant corporate-driven mess, you can pledge your allegiance to what you believe in by supporting local, sustainable shops.
It’s wicked sustainable: As if you didn’t need any more quality reasons to gift second-hand gifts. By gifting used cars, you’re keeping them out of car graveyards, and by gifting used clothing you are keeping them out of landfills. Keeping things in economic motion can have a huge impact on the planet we all share!
The Stigma
No one is quite sure where the negative stigma associated with gifting used items came from but it’s time to end it. If you spent the time researching and finding a second-hand gift for someone, they should appreciate it or else you should dump them as a friend. They’re not really worth your time or effort.
In no way, shape, or form should you be embarrassed about giving or receiving a second-hand treasure. Like I said, there is a lot more effort and thought behind the gift and is often times more personalized.
A lot of the time while thrifting you’ll see something very unique, and that person that it’s perfect for just pops into your head! What’s more thoughtful than that!? The answer is nothing.
Here at Diversity Consignment, we see and hear this happening all the time. “OMG so and so would love that!” “I’m buying it just for them!” There’s nothing more beautiful to hear.
Giving a gift card to a second-hand store can also be a sneaky way of giving something new and used at the same time. Try it out.
The Future of Gift-Giving
As time goes by, more and more people are shopping more sustainably. This is true especially for personal shopping, but also moving in the same direction for gift-giving during the holiday seasons.
More emphasis on sustainability and more awareness on the benefits of shopping used items means a better world for us all to enjoy. I say the future holds a reversal on the stigma. Let’s gooooo!
I guess I’m in a spicy mood today to do a little revealing dive into the relationship that Savers has with charity. I will be un-partial in this article to whether or not I think Savers’ operation is good or bad and provide facts that are readily available to the public through various credible websites.
What we will cover includes if Savers is in fact a charity thrift chain, some relationships that they have been a part of and a general outlook on this type of business model.
Is Savers / Value Village a Charity Store?
The simple answer to this question is no. Savers is not a charity thrift store. In fact, they explain this in detail several times on their website. “We’ve chosen to keep our business model this way—to buy our supply from local nonprofits.” We pay our nonprofit partners for your stuff, helping them fund programs in your community.” “Shopping in our stores does not support any nonprofit.”
It sounds a little tricky, if Savers is a for-profit “charity” thrift store, what type of business model is this actually?
To be honest with you, the type of business model is actually genius from a capitalistic standpoint. Savers has a relationship with a charity organization within their stores and essentially pays the charity by-the-pound for your donations. Things they want and think they can sell; they pay a certain $ per pound (this information is unavailable to the public) and things that they don’t want and do not think fit their store standards they pay a less amount per pound and then “recycle.” Like I said, this amount is undisclosed to the public but certain partners have gone on record saying that Savers will pay $40,000 and then flip that donation for $1 million.
The recycling is where things can get a little tricky. If they take after the model of the textile recycling centers, what that usually means is that they would ship the unwanted clothing overseas to a buyer that will pay them more per pound than they purchased it for. I’m not saying that is exactly what they do at the Savers recycling warehouses, but it would be hard to convince me that they send clothing over-seas on their own dime.
Savers and Charity Relationships
Several of the nearly 100 charity organizations that have been associated with the Savers organization have severed ties. According to an NBC article, 3 of 6 have cited unfavorable terms and conditions. Director of the Boston area Big Brother Big Sister Foundation was cited saying the following: “If you’re making a million, and we’re making $40,000, how is that helping charities?” “It may be legal, but it’s not right.”
Other charities associated with the Savers organization have openly come out in the defense of the for-profit conglomerate stating that public funding for charities has dried-up and if it weren’t for Savers’ purchasing contributions, they may not make it.
It’s fair to say that the business model that Savers has developed has certainly benefited charities as well as itself. Although Savers does not report its financial performance to the public, their yearly revenue has estimated to reach $1.2 billion according to Moody’s Investor’s Service.
Outlook
As a business owner myself, I find this business model to be fascinating. The problem I could see would be if the general public is deceived into thinking that their donations go directly to benefiting the charity associated with the business, when actually it does not. In the case of Savers and Value Village, the charity does receive compensation by-the-pound when Savers pays for the clothing. They then put the clothing into their stores and price them to make a profit. What is unwanted goes into their recycling center.
I know in recent times; Savers has created an announcement that plays over the telecom during business hours reinforcing the fact that they are a for-profit company. The next time you are in Savers, try to pay attention to the telecom to hear the message.
So, you’ve decided you’re done with the traditional 9-5 and you’ve decided you’re going to begin your new venture or side-hustle selling on eBay. Firstly, I would like to say Congratulations on taking a risk! Maybe you’ve decided you’re not quite ready to start diving head-first into selling, but you’d like to gain a little insight into the best way to navigate the e-commerce giant. If either of these cases hit home to you, you’re in the right place.
In today’s article, I’m going to get you started on how to sell on eBay successfully and provide to you the lessons I have learned throughout my eBay selling career that can help guide you! I will be going over why you should sell on eBay, my personal experiences selling on the platform, what things to avoid selling on eBay, and some of the Pro’s and Con’s to selling things online.
My History Selling on Ebay
I want to start this article by sharing a little information about my past experiences selling on eBay which has ultimately brought me to where I am today.
I began my eBay career in 2015, shortly after dropping out from college. At that time, I was in desperate need of a way to make some money to maintain my independence. I got a job across the street from the bedroom I was renting out at one of the 100 or so Dunkin’ Donuts in the neighborhood. At that time, making Dunkie’s coffee was really the only job I was qualified for. I had enrolled in nursing school around the same time to get myself involved in a potentially practical career. Juggling aggravatingly minimally paying work and long hours studying and going to classes became my new life.
I had always been a frugal shopper and my favorite brand to purchase at that time was Polo Ralph Lauren. I know, champagne taste on a beer budget. Luckily for me, I was always able to find my favorite brand hidden in the racks of my local Goodwill. $5 for a button down was all I needed to grow my wardrobe and trust me I grew my wardrobe. So much so, in fact, that I honestly had all the Polo I needed. My closet was full but the thrill of sifting through the racks to find my brand was left unnourished. That’s when eBay entered into my life.
I thought to myself that if I could find this expensive brand for only $5 at the local thrift store, there must be a way to sell it for at least 1/4 of what it costs in the retail stores, right? I downloaded the eBay app one night after class and began searching for what a used Polo shirt would sell for and quickly realized that there was a lot of potential.
I used all of my tip money that I would get from working at DD and began buying shirts, listing them on the eBay app, and was surprised how quickly they sold. Shocked, I thought to myself, “If I do some research, there must be a whole bunch of brands that I’m not even aware of that I might be able to find on the racks as well.” Days and days of research eventually opened an entire new world of second-hand fashion before my very eyes.
I eventually quit my job and finished nursing school, only to begin my thrifting career and go on to open multiple storefronts throughout the following years. I will save the minutia for my autobiography lol. The moral of the story is this: I utilized an e-commerce site to become an entrepreneur and so can you! The key is to find your own path and use some key insights. The things I wish I had known a lot earlier on in my career I will share with you today.
Why Choose Ebay to Sell?
There are many reasons why one would choose eBay as their primary means of selling. One reason may be that they allow you to sell used clothing (a category I took full advantage of). If clothing is your primary focus, the fact that you can sell used clothing on eBay is a huge bonus. I’m guessing that clothing is what has brought most of you to this article. 😉
Currently, eBay has one of the largest numbers of active shoppers out of all the online e-commerce giants. Reports show that there are over 180 million active buyers on eBay worldwide. That is a huge audience to reach as a prospective seller! Another shocking statistic is that there are over 1 billion active listings on the website! A whole lot of buyers mixed in with a whole lot of things available for sale. This can be both a positive and a negative respectively which we will get into more detail about further down in the article.
It doesn’t have to be used clothing to get you to consider selling on eBay. Many people find success in a whole laundry list of categories: Auto Parts, Electronics, Accessories, games, and many more. The principles that I will share with you in this article will hold true no matter what your category may be.
What Should I Be Selling on Ebay?
Now that we have covered why you should consider selling on eBay, we can move on to what you should be selling on eBay. The following list should serve you in narrowing down your selections regardless of what category you invest in:
Rare products within your niche
Products you can source for very little up-front cost or even free
Products within your category that aren’t commonly listed
Products that are sold at a high rate
I get that you may be saying to yourself, “Dude this is so general and obvious” but hear me out. I will give you some examples of each bullet point within the used clothing category.
For example, rare products within the used clothing category may include certain eras of military clothing. Yes, they may be difficult to source and find, but the rarity itself makes them worth investing in; should you come across them.
Many times you can find places that offer “by the pound” purchasing such as the “bins” at a Goodill outlet where you can get pounds of clothing for less than $1. Other times you may find people on Facebook Marketplace who are willing to give you things for free. It takes research, but these things do exist.
An example of products within the category of clothing that aren’t commonly sold would be suits. I, personally, sold thousands and thousands of suits and suit separates simply because it is not typically a product that most people think to thrift. Find your “suits” in whatever category you choose to sell within.
An example of a brand that is sold at a high rate (at least for now in 2022) within the clothing category is Patagonia. Patagonia is hot and so whenever you, as a clothing seller, can get your hands on it for a reasonable price; buy it. Find your category’s Patagonia.
What NOT To Sell on Ebay
Now that we have covered what types of things to research, let’s go ahead and cover what to not look for or try and sell. The Following is a list of things, that in over 6 years of selling on eBay, I have learned to avoid:
Products that have thousands of search results – You’re simply going to get lost in the search results. Unless you are selling this product for the lowest price on all of eBay (people will search from Low-High for pricing). Most likely, if you have the lowest price point, people will either question the quality, or you will be losing out on profit margins. Don’t waste your time.
Products with poor conversion rates – Do a quick filter under the “sold” section when you search for an item you want to buy. If there are thousands of listings that are active, and only a handful that have sold; don’t try to sell it. Low conversion can be subjective, but as a general rule of thumb, if you don’t see 500 active and at least 250 sold; don’t buy it to try to sell it.
Custom made products or artwork – Ebay just doesn’t have the following for custom made goods or artwork. You would have much better results by switching over to Etsy if you’re looking to sell custom made goods or art.
Inexpensive retail items – Why waste your time listing an item that you can realistically only sell for $5? Maybe if you have hundreds of them and do a bulk listing? Inexpensive retail items are better for huge eBay stores and most likely selling on Amazon.
Generic Brands – People generally come to eBay in search of good deals on name brands. The platform has developed a reputation as a place where everything is heavily discounted. Generic brands don’t have the resale value that name brands carry. Unless it is a specific part or style that is needed or on-trend I would avoid anything generic.
Products that you, yourself, can’t identify – If you don’t know what it is or what the use for it is why would anyone be searching for it or even know what to type in to find it? You would have to be insanely good at writing a description of what you thought it might be in order to get someone who might be thinking along the same lines while shopping. Low likelihood.
Products that you dislike sourcing – If you don’t enjoy the process of the hunt, you’re not going to enjoy the sale. It comes down to burnout and lack of interest. These two things will make the entire process unenjoyable, and you’ll eventually give up.
Types of Tricks That Help Products Sell
The following is a list of some tried and true “tricks” that will help your listings sell:
The Title – This is easily the most important, frequently overlooked, and sure-fire way to get your listings into the eyes of prospective buyers. The title needs to have the following structure: Brand, Description, Type, Color, Size. Example: Hugo Boss Double Breasted Suit Jacket Brown Herringbone Size 42R. DO NOT just put “Hugo Boss Blazer” because you’re narrowing it down to about 500 other listings with that also included in the title. People might be looking for all the specifics mentioned in the former title and land right on your listing.
The Description – To avoid hundreds of unnecessary messages you’re going to want to create a pretty descriptive description. Always include measurements in the description. You’ll also cut down on your return rate by providing extra details.
Lowball to gain exposure – The way that the eBay algorithm works is that when you sell, you sell again. I’m not sure exactly what it is but anytime I would do a clean out of my inventory (starting bid .99 or $4.99) and sell hundreds of things after the 10-day auction, I would also get ensuing sales on regularly priced inventory. You need to gain sales in order to make sales and one of the easiest ways to do that is to clean house.
Stay Active – Post new inventory every day and answer messages. The eBay algorithm loves activity. There is also a way to “refresh” your listings! Edit in bulk. You don’t have to actually change anything about any of the listings, but by simply going through the process of “editing in bulk” you can create a whole mess of activity very quickly.
Free Shipping – This is a controversial one. It can be very smart to offer free shipping if you know your numbers and analyze your profit margins. Things sell quicker with free shipping. The downfall to free shipping is that people will take advantage of eBay’s return policy and you’ll be stuck paying return shipping regardless of your personal return policy. Those returns can add up to ruin your bottom-line the more you sell and the more that gets returned.
Conclusion
Ebay comes with a lot of fees. Be wary of what you are spending and sourcing and use the manager tools to track your profits and losses. Seriously, you need to treat this like a business if you want to be successful. Most people neglect this, and they wonder why they don’t make any profits.
The flipping game is difficult, if you’re doing it correctly you are hardly seeing any returns. You’re constantly using your profits to buy more products. This can seem like a never-ending battle of accumulating inventory. At some point, you need to start taking profits out and paying yourself.
Over time you will get better and better at sourcing products that work for you. Do what works best and source the things that sell quickly. Don’t hang on to inventory for too long in hopes that someone is just waiting 6 months to purchase it. Run a cleanout auction and get rid of it! You probably made your investment back on that haul anyway!
I have a love-hate relationship with eBay. The returns and messages overwhelmed me to the point where I finally gave up on it. I have love for eBay by helping me start my career, but I think it’s not the answer for the long-haul. It is always better to own your own than to have to use a 3rd party selling platform that eats away at all your profits. Best Wishes to you all!
Consignment shops can be great sustainable places to re-sell or purchase slightly used or even new clothing. In many regards, consignment shops are some of the most sustainable forms of recycling due to the low impact on waste they tend to produce. The clothing goes in a simple cycle, from consignor, to consignee, to consumer.
Of course, what to expect at a typical consignment shop will vary greatly depending on the styles and types of consignment shops in question. They can range from beautiful boutique style clothing stores, hype beast shops, and even true vintage stores. I will say, however, that the vast majority of consignment shops I have seen tend to be more focused on the up-scale designer centric styles. This may be due to the fact that within these boutique types of consignment shops, one may find some great discounts on otherwise unaffordable brands.
In this article we are going to cover some of the tried-and-true basics of what one would typically find inside of a consignment shop regardless of the specific type of products they offer.
What Makes a Consignment Shop Different than a Charity Thrift Store?
I want to start by doing a little bit of classification on what a consignment shop is and what differentiates it from a typical charity thrift shop.
A consignment shop is defined as “a store that sells secondhand items (typically clothing and accessories) on behalf of the original owner, who receives a percentage of the selling price.” This is different than a charity thrift store in a couple of notable ways:
A consignment shop typically has a carefully curated selection of products.
You can make money by dropping off your personal items to a consignment shop.
Consignment shops are typically for-profit businesses, however; in some instances, that is not always true.
Organization (layout)
The organization within a consignment shop is typically uncluttered and well-structured. This holds true in most shops that I have personally visited. Why are they usually so well organized? It is much easier to keep track of consigned goods inside a more well-organized setting. Remember, many consignment shops can have thousands of different products belonging to hundreds or thousands of different clients at any given time.
If a consignment shop is cluttered and disorganized, it can be a warning sign to prospective consignors. Unless the aesthetic is “organized clutter” (I have definitely seen some consignment shops master this visual) the prospective seller may be left wondering “How are they going to keep track of my stuff?” Consignment stores rely heavily on the community to supply the store with merchandise, so it is important that they gain the trust of a potential client.
Boutique style consignment shops will have a wide array of department store style fixings. Glass showcases, neat tables, and minimalist decor. While vintage consignment shops may have a good display of organized clutter. A shop should fit the vibe they’re trying to portray. I wouldn’t expect a lot of glitter and glam inside of a vintage store, for instance. On the other hand, I would still expect it to be more well organized than a run-of-the-mill charity thrift store.
The Products
Like I mentioned earlier, consignment shops will have a well-curated selection of inventory. The inventory will likely match the clientele that the store is delivering to. For example, a consignment shop in Nantucket will likely have a lot of pastel colored clothing or nautical themed home decor. A hype beast consignment shop located in the inner-city will likely have sneakers, casual clothing, and streetwear designer brands.
The products you should find in a consignment shop should fill the void between “new” and “heavily used.” Most stores will not accept items that show major, obvious signs of wear. This is important to note because you are not likely to find basement prices on the new arrivals section of your neighborhood consignment shop. We will go into pricing expectations a little further down in the article.
Couches at furniture consignment shops should resemble new couches. Dresses at the boutique consignment shop should look as close to new as possible.
You will traditionally (or I should say should not see at all) fast fashion brands or inexpensively manufactured items at a consignment shop, if they are doing their job curating products. Low priced retail merchandise just doesn’t have enough markup value on the resale market and therefore has little to no value to a consignment shop.
You should expect a good selection of desirable merchandise at the consignment store. That desirability, of course, will depend on who the target audience is geared towards at that particular location. Like I said, if you are into goth-core styled clothing, don’t be shocked if the local boutique consignment shop doesn’t carry a decent selection of what you’re interested in.
Pricing
The general rule of thumb when it comes to pricing expectations should be somewhere between retail and bargain basement pricing. Consignment shop inventory as a whole, is typically between 90-95% used. Even clothing or household items that still have the tags and that are un-used should still be priced between 50-80% of retail value. Think about pricing on a department store clearance rack. I have seen some more boutique style shops that stick to near retail value and I have seen others that will go as far as 33% of retail value. The pricing should match the value that they deliver to you, the customer.
Consignment shops are places of discounted merchandise. It is not uncommon to see heavy discounts on sale racks (up to 90% off the original price tag). Usually, inventory is moving at a pretty rapid pace and new inventory is coming in hot. The stores need to make room for new arrivals and will put a good amount of inventory on clearance to make room for new merch. These sales can be great opportunities for customers to get some fantastic deals on excellent quality gems.
Consignment shops should deliver on value to prospective customers. They can justify higher prices than charity thrift stores by delivering on that value. How well the store in question performs on the following bullet points should help to determine the overall value of the pricing:
Customer service
Cleanliness of the store
Selection of the merchandise (curation)
Overall experience
If the store delivers 10/10 on all of these components, expect to pay a little higher in price.
Here at Diversity Consignment, we try to differentiate in a few ways that help us stand out from the typical consignment shop experience.
Traditionally, clothing consignment shops have been cis-gendered and specialize in delivering excellent quality to either the female or male customer market exclusively. Here at Diversity Consignment, we have broken down the barrier of that exclusivity and welcome a non-binary shopping experience for all genders. Honestly, most people won’t really even notice this difference upon entrance because the racks are simply organized by inventory type (sweaters, hoodies, jackets, etc.) and size. This may not be the ideal layout for everyone, and we embrace that.
Another differentiator we offer is the products that we curate. In many regards it would be difficult to classify the inventory under one simple classification. We showcase boutique brands, instruments, vintage styles, vinyl records, and most importantly local artwork and custom creations. Really what we try to offer are things that our prospective customers would want to purchase. We try to communicate as best that we can with our existing customers and analyze the data on what is selling to narrow-down our future selections and curations. Again, our inventory is not likely for everyone, and we understand that.
We offer a calendar of events on our website and have a range of interactive activities for you to do while shopping! Swing by some time to shop or consign with us when you’re in the Boston area!
Conclusion
Consignment shops are fantastic places to stay frugal and in-style regardless of the type of consignment shop and what they offer. I would suggest finding one that aligns with your style and values, if possible. Don’t go in thinking you’re going to pay GoodWill prices; the consignment shops work hard to curate top-quality inventory and oftentimes work extra hard to make the inventory presentable.
The secondhand industry is continuing to grow as people become more aware of the impacts their spending has on the local community and the environmental impacts. Do us all a favor and support your local consignment shop!
You may find it difficult to stay on trend without buying the newest releases coming out of the department stores. I’m here to tell you that it’s not only possible to stay on-trend, but even possible to become a trend-setter!
All it takes is a bit of knowledge on where to go and what to look for. If you’re creative, you may even be able to up-cycle and create new designs never before seen! Who says you can’t stay stylish on a thrift store budget??
I have been professionally thrifting for the past six or seven years (since the release of this article) and I can tell you first-hand that some of the most stylish people I know shop exclusively at second-hand stores.
What styles do you want to create?
Remember, styles tend to be cyclical. The new lines out today are almost certainly recreations of some style seen in the past. One of the best places to go to find a unique outfit from past couple decades would, of course, be at your local thrift store.
Today, designer brands are showcasing wide-leg pants and jeans, embezzled tops, leather, leather, leather! A perfect era of clothing to be looking for to find what’s hip today would be to try and source early 2000s-late 2000s brands. Miss me jeans, juicy couture hoodies, Marc Ecko cargo pants, are just a few brands that pioneered the styles of today. The greatest part? The thrift stores are huge honey-holes of early 2000s styles as people my age finally decided to donate their high school get-ups.
It doesn’t stop there. If you wanted to go for the Pharrell Williams look, I can guarantee there is a vintage fedora at your local thrift store just waiting for the perfect home. Take any pop icon or celebrity and there are plenty of similar outfits that can be found at the thrift. In fact, many YouTubers and vloggers have made it a fun activity to recreate celebrity styles through thrift store finds!
What about the designer brands?
There are soooo many designer brands at the thrift store! Don’t worry about not having your polo. Excellent brands can be found out there in abundance.
“I hate showing up to a party wearing the same thing as someone else.”
Well, you’re in luck! No more playing the game of who wore it better. When you style yourself sustainably, there’s no chance that you’ll show up to the wedding wearing the same dress as someone else! Yours might even be an incredible vintage 1960s floral gown you found at 1/10th the price!
It is time to get Macklemore’s “Thrift Shop” song out of your mind. Nobody is going to walk out of a thrift store wearing an antique fur coat and blinder-style sunglasses. You’re going to be frugal and find the same styles that are current today, only from the past. I, for one, think that’s way cooler than buying a new Givenchy top that you have to explain to everyone is legit.
She does look amazing though right?
Can you work a sewing machine?
If you can work your way around a sewing machine, you’re in luck! Countless people nowadays are reworking old clothing into new styles! All you have to do is type in “upcycling” into YouTube and you’ll find thousands of ideas of inspiration to cut and sew, dip dye, and tie dye your own creations!
Start doing something simple by watching and emulating a basic upcycling tutorial. You can get more advanced as your skills progress. It’s not only fun, but also a great way to become a style trend-setter in your local community!
Conclusion
Despite what you may think, you absolutely can find stylish trends at the thrift. Most of the time you’ll be able to pull out with an entire outfit easily under $30!
Try consignment shops to search through a more curated selection at a little higher price point. You can even find brand new styles at your local consignment shops at under clearance prices.
Don’t be like everyone else, feel free to dress in a unique way! Freedom of expression is one of the beautiful freedoms we have in this lifetime. It’s easy to express your creativity in the discounted racks of the thrift and consignment shops near you!
Diversity Consignment Blog 